"That is a very good question", Garm responded to the Captain's query about hobgoblin numbers. "We fought goblins, including worg riders, led by disciplined hobgoblins, though at the time only a small garrison was holding the ruined keep. Of course, they did have a manticore. And a minotaur... but those we fought later. Nevertheless it would seem this invasion may involve other powerful beings attracted by the hobgoblins' reputation for military strategy. At the moment all we have seen are isolated war parties, but the map hints at larger numbers. "All tribes muster here under Kharn?" That certainly sounds ominous. But there was no evidence those tribes had already arrived in the vicinity of the keep."

"Unfortunately we do not have any more information as to where their main forces are presently located. Perhaps the tribes are still assembling? Or possibly already on their way towards us? It would be worthwhile finding out more intelligence..."

He let the question hang while looking at his friends, assuming that their services might, in time, be required here.

After Garm's assessment, Zeldana adds, "Barring some sort of scouting, I can't see any way of estimating their numbers. I can add this, however--this is a plan long in the making. The footwork it takes in coordinating multiple tribes is significant. In that time, this Kharn person has had time to gather information on those he would kill, and the towns closest to his location would be easiest for him to estimate the strength of. I don't mean to sound the doomsayer, but rest assured, when he comes here, it will be on his terms...."

With that, the mages voice drops off and she looks down at the map. Zeldana gently taps the location corresponding to Drellen's Ferry and sighs. Looking up, she admits, "And, we have no idea when. Could be tonight, could be a week from now. Unfortunately, their leader did nothing but scream insults at us until his death, so we did not learn very much from him."

Gaius nodded in agreement, “Aye, would that we already had accounting of their forces. However, the numbers already sent to the afterlife have been significant, yet not more than scouting by assessments.”

“The map recovered shows their intent to march in conquering the entire region. All the tribes would be an army of significance, and one they believe will succeed if bolstered with heavier troops like minotaurs.”

“Our intention, barring other guidance, was to possibly return to the keep this afternoon to spend the night and be ready to venture further north to investigate. But word needs be sent eastward to warn the folk of the coming invasion.”

Gaius' last statement elicits something of a sigh from Zeldana, although she doesn't clarify it. Instead, she agrees, "Yes, ultimately, the big unknown is the extant of the enemy forces, so that is the area that needs attention." She taps the point of the map where the congregation of tribes is to happen. "The question is, can we get a direct approximation, here? Or will we have to settle for more indirect evidence?"

Kirger was silent during the meeting with the Captain. The others were doing an excellent job at explaining the map and threat they have uncovered. The blond haired man was also pleased that the Captain would send word further east and to the Lord of the area.

"Tribes would indicated hundreds likely, perhaps more. Either way, if we head north from the keep, we are sure to find evidence of this army. And if not, we can always do something about that bridge at Skull Gorge to slow them down."

As Kriger speaks, Zeldana traces her fingertip over the map, sliding over towards the Skull Gorge bridge and circling it shortly after he mentions it. Lifting her finger from the map a moment, she looks at it a moment, then returns her attention to his words. A worries expression darkens her face as the implications of what he is saying begin to sink in.